Could buying that knock-off item fund the next terrorist attack?

While this story is from a British perspective, it reveals how the trade in counterfeit (knock-off) merchandise is funding some pretty nasty characters beyond the borders of the British Isles.

Richard Elias recently revealed in Scotland on Sunday:

The sale of fake CDs, DVDs, clothing and perfumes in Glasgow and other British cities is helping to raise money for one of the world's most-notorious terror outfits – the group held responsible for the slaughter of US journalist Daniel Pearl in 2002.

MI5 is now targeting British-based supporters of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), a pro-Kashmiri group dedicated to gaining the disputed territory its independence. Its aims include the "destruction" of the United States and India.

This isn't the first time the words terrorist organization and counterfeit merchandise have been used in the same sentence. And in reality, the problem goes far beyond the borders of the United Kingdom.

A good video about the counterfeit problem by KRQE in New Mexico is posted on YouTube, which can be seen, here.

The video references a report by the IACC (Internation Anticounterfeiting Coalition). The IAAC stated in a white paper that:

Low risk of prosecution and enormous profit potential have made criminal counterfeiting an attractive enterprise for organized crime groups. Congress recognized organize crime’s increasing role in the theft of intellectual property when it made trademark counterfeiting and copyright piracy predicate acts under the federal RICO statute (see 18 U.S.C. § 1961). Recently, ties have been established between counterfeiting and terrorist organizations who use the sale of fake goods to raise and launder money.

Counterfeiting is becoming a worldwide problem that poses a threat to the economy and public safety. Unfortunately, a lot of people view it as a victimless crime and continue to support it by purchasing knock-off merchandise.

If you take the time to read the IAAC White Paper, it also reveals that a lot of countries that we do business with in the global economy are some of the biggest culprits.

And the biggest offender seems to be China!

This should be no surprise considering the amount of unsafe product being found at your local store coming from that country.

While there are obviously more players in all of this than terrorist organizations, supporting any of them with our business isn't in the public's best interests.

IAAC White Paper, here.

Scotland on Sunday story, here.

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buySAFE takes on the issue of counterfeit (knock off) merchandise

buySAFE bonds sellers after verifying they are reputable and honest. They also contribute their time to protecting the average person in the sometimes murky waters of e-commerce. Recently, buySAFE has been taking on the (huge) issue of counterfeit merchandise.

Consumers are protected when they buy from a merchant bearing the buySAFE seal. Not a very bad deal for the consumer! Bonding isn't free, but many merchants experience higher sales volumes after being accepted by buySAFE. Trust can drive a lot of sales! buySAFE is also a viable means for a merchant to protect their assets.

The Association of Certified Fraud Examiners noted in their last report to the nation that small businesses suffer "disproportionate fraud losses," when they are victimized by fraud. Large merchants can afford experts to deal with their fraud problems, however the cost is hiring experts can be restrictive for smaller merchants.

Of the numerous fraud issues found on auction sites, complaints about counterfeit goods rank pretty high. People buy items believing they are the "real deal," only to discover the item is a (knock-off) counterfeit.

Companies, who sell respected and trusted brands, are impacted by a loss of sales and consumer trust in their products, also. Some of them have already filed civil litigation against eBay because of the amount of knock-off (counterfeit) merchandise being sold on the site.

Even though auction sites offer seller rating systems, these ratings are often compromised when seller accounts are hijacked (taken over). eBay and PayPal (by most accounts) are recognized as the two most phished brands out there.

The intent of most of these Phishing schemes is to obtain personal/financial information to steal money (and or) take over legitimate accounts.

This can also happen when malware (crimeware) is inserted into an unprotected system and personal/financial details are stolen, normally using key logging software. Sadly enough, the criminal element has found it pretty easy to remain anonymous on auction sites, and few of them seem to get caught.

Whenever the Anti Phishing Working Group (APWG) releases a new report, both of these activities seem to set a new record that surpasses the previous one.

Recently, eBay seems to be taking the fraud problem a lot more seriously, but someone using the name of "Vladuz" is intent on proving their systems are easily compromised. A good place to keep up on the Vladuz saga is firemeg.com.

Although a good information source, I'm not certain that bashing Meg is the solution to fraud on auction sites.

Being the largest auction site, eBay is targeted by fraud all the time because of their popularity.

Fraud has already migrated to other auction sites, but they will always target the most popular.

The reason for this is simple (and it's only business for them) - there are more victims to harvest in popular places.

The term "Vlad" was based on a Romanian historical figure, Vlad Tepes, who inspired the novel, Dracula. In recent times, the term has come to signify fraudsters from Romania, who are well established and organized in the world of auction fraud.

Besides, protecting merchants and consumers, buySAFE makes a lot of contributions to addressing fraud issues on auction sites. Most recently, Jeff Grass (buySAFE CEO) has posted a lot of educational information on his blog about the counterfeit problem, here.

Jeff also appeared on the Today show, when they did a piece on counterfeit goods.You can view a clip of the show, here.

And the Today show isn't the only place that considers buy Safe’s views on the counterfeit problem important. The French government recently included buySAFE as part of a U.S. delegation (including government experts) to discuss the problem of counterfeit goods.

The INTERNATION ANTICOUNTERFEITING COALITION (a non-profit) sums up the problem when they state:

Counterfeiting is big business.It is estimated that counterfeiting is a $600 billion a year problem. In fact, it's a problem that has grown over 10,000 percent in the past two decades, in part fueled by CONSUMER DEMAND.

The real truth is people who purchase counterfeit merchandise risk funding nefarious activities, contributing to unemployment, creating budget deficits and compromising the future of this country in the global economy.

IACC site, here.

Part of the reason the activity has grown 10,000 percent is probably due to the explosion in e-commerce, especially on auction sites.

buySAFE seems to be doing a little more than just selling a product. In fact, they seem to be exercising some corporate responsibility by educating the public on fraud trends in the rapidly growing world of e-commerce.

Consumers can become a member of their Smart Buyer's Club, which leads you to a lot of good deals (safe to buy), here. Club members accumulate points, which can be redeemed for goods, or services (listed on the site).

Anyone claiming to be a buySAFE merchant can be verified, which can be done on the site, also.

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On eBay, the buyer better beware!

Despite a lot of publicity that eBay is going after fraud, the bottom line is that the buyer better BEWARE when they purchase something on eBay, or for that matter, any digital auction site.

This morning, I read a story from Wales, where a person just got caught selling laptops that didn't exist.

From the Evening Leader:

Christopher Malcolm Amos, from Green Lane, Shotton, admitted swindling customers of the online auction site out of thousands of pounds to fuel his gambling addiction.

Under the user name 'Whitefruit,' the 22-year-old accepted payments from 130 bidders wanting to buy laptop computers.

Some used eBay's PayPal facility, while others transferred the cash directly into Amos's bank account, but nobody ever received their orders.

Please note that at least some of the fraud victims used eBay's preferred method of payment, PayPal.

And Mr. Whitefruit, who I gather is a gambling addict, didn't get into very much trouble for swindling about 100 people. He was ordered to pay some restitution and got a 12 month suspended sentence.

I'm sure eBay fraudsters around the world are quivering in their boots!

I ran into another story in the ChronicleHerald (Halifax, Canada) describing a significantly larger operation involving selling neat "tech toys" that never existed:

Police said Wednesday several complaints about alleged electronic commerce crimes have come in during the past week to 10 days. Customers are from such countries as Australia, Sweden, Norway, the United States, Italy and Estonia. Const. Jeff Carr, a spokesman with Halifax Regional Police, said Canadian EBay users have allegedly been victimized as well, but there are no complaints from the Maritimes.

The person behind this, who hasn't been caught yet was selling laptops that didn't exist.

The story also indicates that PayPal was used on some of these transactions:

He said one complaint, from PayPal of San Jose, Calif., includes more than 100 alleged victims. PayPal, which was acquired by EBay in 2002, is an online money-sending service that provides users worldwide an opportunity to buy and sell goods without sharing personal financial information.

Even when you get the merchandise you paid for on an auction site, you are taking the chance that it is a cheap "knock off," or might be some of the stolen merchandise being fenced on some of these digital marketplaces.

Knock off merchandise can be dangerous when it doesn't work as well as the item it is passing itself off does. Buying stolen merchandise poses certain moral issues, also.

When buying something on an auction site, it is up to the buyer to make sure (beware) they are getting what they paid for. This can include using some good old "horse sense," and being able to realize when the deal you seem to be getting is a "little too good to be true."

Previous posts, I've written about fraud on eBay, can be seen, here.

Evening leader story, here.

I've also written about a company called buySAFE, who certifies sellers and guarantees what they sell. The seller pays for this -- and while I suppose the cost is included in their cost of goods sold -- this might be a good way to avoid fraud without having to do a lot of homework.

buySAFE's CEO, Steve Swoda does a blog, which I read from time to time can be seen by clicking, here.

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Immigration & Customs Enforcement...arrests fashion counterfeiters! San Francisco raids...

Vera Wang designs vulnerable to counterfeits!

Shortly after Bill Clinton walked daughter Chelsea down the aisle on his arm at her high-profile wedding over the weekend in Rhinebeck (NY), local news anchors reported on the stunning wedding gown designed by leading fashion designer, Vera Wang.

In follow-up newsbites, young brides-to-be were invited to stay tuned, to learn how they could "whip" up the same pricey "look" for their own special occasion at the altar to fall within their budget constraints.

You betcha!

Right now, in back-door shops around the country, a host of dress designers are probably tossing together wedding gowns that echo the exquisite gown worn by Chelsea at a fraction of the cost.

It's called a "knock-off - and the practice of copy-catting - is a prevelant trend in the highly-competitive fashion industry.

But, when a clothing manufacturer steals a design outright and stamps it with a designer's label (without permission or license) - of Vera Wang, for example - that is a fraudulent act which prompts Law Enforcement to sit up and take notice.

In fact, on Tuesday, prosecutors announced that they just conducted a sweep and have charged operators of eight boutiques in the Bay area, for allegedly turning out designer fakes which were actually cut-and-seamed together in China.

According to the US attorney for Northern California and U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the twenty-five count indictment is part of the largest federal enforcement action ever taken against West Coast retailers suspected of selling counterfeit designer apparel and accessories.

And, the government takes these matters seriously for good reason.
.
"Trademark infringement and intellectual property crime not only cost this country much needed jobs and business revenues, but the illegal importation of substandard products can also pose a serious threat to consumers' health and safety," an official noted in a terse press release on the heels of the arrests.

The accused knock-off artists were charged with conspiracy, smuggling goods into the U.S., and trafficking in counterfeit (fake) goods.

"To consumers who think designer knock-offs are a harmless way to beat the system and get a great deal, 'buyer beware','" said ICE Director John Morton.

"The investigation has led to the seizure of nearly 100 million dollars worth of counterfeit merchandise [based on the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) had the products been legitimate]," a statement said.

The luxury-brand fakes were packaged under known product names such as Prada, Louis Vuitton, Kate Spade, Nike, Armani, and Coach.

Tourists may have been hood-winked by the clever fakes that show up on retail shelves in the form of tony handbags, luxurious scarves, designer sunglasses, butter-smooth leather wallets, and snazzy eye-catching watches.

http://www.julilanaayrs.com

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Microsoft is NOT the Biggest Hacker in China!

Chinese surfers are crying foul at Microsoft's launch of the "Windows Genuine Advantage Program," which turns a screen black when it detects pirated software. It is believed up to 200 million computer users in China have counterfeit software on their machines.

China is well-known for being involved in the knock-off trade, as well as, selling dangerous and defective products in the global economy. The news has had a lot of stories about them censoring the Internet, violating user privacy and being involved in hacking on an industrial scale.

Ironically, Dhong Zengwhi, a Bejing lawyer, accused Microsoft of being the "biggest hacker in China with its intrusion into users' computer systems without their agreement or any judicial authority," according to the China Daily. His argument is that this will cause serious functional damage to users' computers and according to China's criminal law, Microsoft could be accused of breaching and hacking into computer systems. Zengwhi has filed a complaint with the Chinese government about this.

Does this mean Microsoft won't be able to out-source work to China?

I wonder if Mr. Zengwhi's opinion was when it was revealed that the Chinese were data-mining the communications of Tom-Skype users? Tom-Skype is the Chinese version of the popular Skype software, which allows people to communicate worldwide using the Internet.

Privacy violations in China aren't limited to Tom-Skype communications, either. During the recent Olympic games, the government openly monitored Internet communications, using the excuse of security to justify what many believe was censorship.

The allegation that Microsoft is the biggest hacker in China is questionable. Governments from all over the world have accused the Chinese of hacking into their systems and it isn't considered safe to carry a laptop, or even a smart-phone when visiting China. Recently, there was speculation that Commerce Secretary Carlos Gutierrez had his laptop hacked during a visit to China.

In fact, if you follow the news, the theft of intellectual property is often traced to the Chinese. The FBI has caught numerous Chinese agents stealing a lot of private and government information in the recent past.

Pirated software is a huge problem in the global economy. It is estimated that one third of all software being sold is counterfeit. A large percentage of the software sold on auction and even e-commerce sites is counterfeit, also. It isn't unknown for a consumer to think they are getting legitimate software when they are not.

Besides costing jobs and revenue to legitimate firms -- knock-off software can damage a machine, or even lead to information theft when malicious software is added to the mix.

I'm sorry that that certain people in China are outraged by Microsoft's solution to the theft of their property, but let's face it, they are hardly the biggest hacker in China.

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Prince William...Royal Wedding, Harry's stag & Kate's weight loss rustle up media frenzy!

Mike Oldfield designer of the hour?

As "Royal Watchers" titter about Kate's sudden weight loss - and blame chic black fashion ensembles (in part) for slender impressions that hint on the suggestion that she is too thin - rambunctious social climbers fathom ways to crash a wild stag party that Prince Harry is expected to toss for his older brother Wills and a posse of their uppercrust pals.

No question about it!

There will be a barrel or two of potent grog on tap to get well-wishers in the mood to par-tay when the bachelor boy takes the final leap into manhood!

For sure - the festivities wll be held in either Scotland or Wales - some wager!

Others, suggest that a one of the exclusive watering holes in London, will offer up their snobby environs for the wild occasion!

For starters, Queen Elizabeth is expected to be most assuredly out-of-harm's-way when the Prince and his closest buddies tip their elbows into the wee hours of dawn.

In fact, I expect that Q E 2 (Queen Lizzie) will be busy dusting off a fairy-tale glass coach or two - down at the Palace garage - in anticipation of the delightful Royal Ceremony.

Meanwhile tongues are wagging about the latest scoops off the wire.

Fergie - once considered a black sheep of the family, for instance - somehow managed to wangle an invite to the Wedding Chapel.

Apparently, Prince William's childhood memories pulled at his heart strings a tad - enough so - that the Duchess of York may find herself trotting up to the Church on time to attend the blessed Royal event.

According to the scuttlebutt, though, the scorned woman (accused of influence peddling of late) won't be tripping-the-light-fantastic with true blue bloods in the inner sancum (at tony receptions and elite after-parties) as the Royal Couple cruise off into the sunset (happily-ever-after?)

And, what details - pray tell - are still under wraps?

The prying eyes of the fashion press have been kept in the dark about -"the dress" - for starters.

Insiders speculate that Mike Oldfield wlll do the honors, but the Royals are keeping "mum", nonetheless.

Kate observers are predicting that the frock will be understated but elegant, and spun from the romantic yarn of an upcoming fashion star on the horizon, across the great pond.

Expect dozens of knock-off versions to hit fashion houses once the designs have been ceremoniously unveiled (no pun intended).

"No one is tying to fill my Mother's shoes at the Palace," Prince William was inclined to hastily note for the record.

But, the pressure will be on, for sure.

My crystal ball reveals a designer frock with simple lines and exquisite romantic flourishes.

And, once the Royal Couple has kissy-faced on their honeymoon, a moving van may pull up in front of one of William's fond digs of yesteryear.

"I was raised at Kensington Palace. And, I had so many pleasant childhood memories there," the Prince beamed to media snoops in recent days, as he hinted in so many words that the two lovebirds may set up their love nest there.

No doubt, Lady Diana's loving spirit will be hovering overhead, with an approving eye.

http://www.thetattler.biz

Royal Watchers keen on Kate being an eyeful!



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Desert Springs Hospital...sloppy unprofessional care! Dr. David H. Rosenstein a Quack! 2 star healing!

Desert Springs all business with no bedside manner!

On the heels of the brouhaha over Obamacare, I penned a report on the quality of health care at a handful of major hospitals situated in Los Angeles and Las Vegas to test the waters.

In the initial post on medical facilities, I tossed a searing spotlight on - Cedars-Sinai, UCLA (Westwood), St. Rose, Spring Valley Hospital - etc.

The complaint issues included nurse incompetence, rude insulting conduct of medical staff, the infliction of nasty bruises on patient arms (demonstrating a lack of skills when undertaking simple blood-withdrawals), a failure to abide by a code of ethics, patient endangerment, and-so-forth and-so-on.

Post: 10/15/10

http://fraudphishing-financialmisdees.blogspot.com/2009/10/barack-obama-insurance-reform-racist.html

Shortly thereafter, it was evident that my accusations were not exaggerated or unfounded.

Indeed, the Los Angeles Times published a revealing feature on an investigation that was underway which was probing "nurses" and their tendency to hire on at local hospitals and clinics despite the fact their licenses had been pulled for a myriad of scandalous reasons.

Post: 12/28/10

http://fraudphishing-financialmisdees.blogspot.com/2010/06/cedars-sinainurse-abuse-more-widespread.html

In response, I followed up with a supportive post - in which I applauded the LA TIMES writers for exposing the wrongful (illlegal) acts - and likewise - getting the tawdry tale right.

Post:  06/2710

http://fraudphishing-financialmisdees.blogspot.com/2010/06/cedars-sinainurses-ditzy-and-clueless.html

About two weeks later, I sat bolt upright on the couch in shock, when a news alert urged viewers at home to stay tuned for an upcoming feature on nurses in Vegas accused of ripping-out
cafeters resulting in harm to patients.

Uh-huh!

In retrospect, it appears that reporters at the daily paper (and moi) were right on the money with our news-breaking feature reports on disreputable "Nurses" at large weeks earlier.

This week, I was fortunate to witness a patient go through all the necessary steps at the emergency department at Desert Springs, so I could prepare this expose on the state of urgent health care treatment at Vegas facilities.

What an eye-opener.

From an altruistic standpoint, the comedy of errors that went down in the dreary halls, was the perfect example of what is wrong with the health care system in this country today.

Around midnight - a tourist slowly maneuvered his way to the front desk at Desert Springs - suffering from chest pains, heat exhaustion, and dehydration.

In view of the fact the mercury soared at 113 degrees for the better half of the day, the man's down 'n out demeanor and haggart look (an image straight out of an American Express ad) was not surprising.

An employee at the desk instructed the middle-aged man to fill in an admission form.

At the instruction of the uniformed nurse, he strolled over to the designated window, and politely asked for the paperwork.

Without hesitation, the mean-spirited loser snapped back at him.

"I don't have the form. You have to get one off the wall rack over there."

Was it necessary for the jerk-off to be so unkind to a stranger in obvious pain and need of help?

Was is not a part of his job description to be of assistance to patients?

The down-hearted gent walked about two baby paces, spied the forms tacked onto clip boards hanging on nails on the end wall, and proceeded to pluck one up and input the personal info.

He strolled back to the intake window and handed the clip board over to the lump in the chair with little ado.

"I don't want the clip board. Just the sheet of paper," the tired old worker snarled.

What a piece of shit!

Wasn't it obvious the patient was sick as a dog, suffering from heat exhaustion and dehydration, and deserving of a little compassion and understanding?

After the patient's vitals were taken, the doctor ordered a potassium drip and a potent pre-packaged liquid to be administered to hydrate the sick patient (and boost his electrolytes).

Although the doctor's directive was written up at approximately 3 a.m. - the medicine was not injected into the patient until 7 a.m. the next morning - when the new shift of nurses signed on for their stint in Emergency.

Negligence or laziness on behalf of the night-time nurses?

Finally, about ten hours after the under-the-weather patient first-strolled through "Emergency's" broad sliding doors, the patient landed unceremoniously in his comfy bed on the 3rd floor.

At least the room had a view of the Vegas sideline.

Meanwhile, the blunders continued.

When the patient was rolled in-and-out of the "dough-nut" (an expensive machine that conducts a scan of the body) the nurse failed to notice that a cap came off of the I-V wiggling precariously in his arm.

Subsequently, it wasn't until the medical staff ended the procedure, that they finally noticed that the patient was bleeding all over his arm, sheets, and gurney.

After a series of x-rays were taken, a nurse in charge of the same patient, was instructed by telephone to drop the individual off for a second procedure that included a sonar scan.

No one responded to a knock on the door when the patient was first delivered there - so the inexperienced orderly left the patient in the hall - trusting that the doctor in charge of carrying out the procedure would show up momentarily and perform the delicate (vital) task by his lonesome.

Thirty-minutes later, when there was a no-show, the patient rolled himself down the hall in a wheelchair where he sought help from Hospital staff dashing licketty-split in all directions.

Finally, one employee spied the desperate patient and offered some assistance.

Back to square one!

The frustrated patient was wheeled back down the hall and parked in front of the same lifeless door.

For one fleeting moment, the spooked-out patient hazarded a guess, that he had entered Rod Serling's Twilight Zone.

At long last, a blue-suited man arrived in a jumble of flubber, and whisked him back upstairs to his cheerful room.

Upstairs, the nurses and management types tried to figure out what happened.

Duh!

From the patient's end, it appeared that he had been dropped off at the wrong location.

But, the individuals assigned to perform the medical procedure, were adamant that no one informed them that the patient had been delivered to their door (while they were off in the busy hospital elsewhere).

Unfortunately, this meant that the hungry patient was barred from eating his lunch, since a 6-to-8 hour fast was required before a scan could be undertaken.

And, of course, the patient had to sit and twiddle his thumbs until a new appointment came available.

If one did not magically present itself, what then?

The luckless patient would be forced to fast all over again, until the following morning, when clinic staff would make a second attempt to perform the procedure.

Talk about a lack of organization and professionalism.

Screwy, if 'ya ask moi.

Unfortunately, the doctor in charge of the patient's care - David H. Rosenstein - turned out to be a quack, too.

When it came time to be discharged, for instance, Rosenstein's paperwork was flimsy, shoddily-tossed together, and downright unprofessional.

Even the discharging Nurse shrugged in disbelief.

"That's all there is," she half-whisppered somewhat embarrassed.

Specifically, the doctor neglected to draft a report on the patient, the reasons for appearing at Emergency, what action was taken (if any), and info on follow-up.

The inept physician (I use the term loosely) didn't even prescribe any medication or suitable pain killer to stave off any relapse until such time as he was on the road to recovery.

When the patient asked the Nurse to contact the doctor to resolve the problems, at first,  she refused.

"He's gone now," she stated matter-of-fact.

"Then, page him, please!"

The over-sized "Marge" lumbered down the hall and disappeared inside a room.

GOSH!

The patient was left waiting for about twenty-five minutes.

In spite of that, the Nurse came up empty-handed.

"The Doctor says you can get pain-killers over the counter."

Something suspicious was going down here.

While Ms. Congeniality was off to no good, I suddenly noticed that Mr. Rosenstein didn't have any credentials posted next to his name on Hospital discharge papers and others I stumbled on after a quick search.

Other doctors on the payroll, had posted titles such as "MD" next to their surnames, so it begged the question.

Does David H. Rosenstein have a license to practice medicine in Nevada?

At this juncture, I asked the Nurse to speak to the Director of the Hospital, so I could discuss the issues further.

My jaw dropped when she uttered up her response.

"The Doctors at Desert Springs don't have any supervisor or director to answer to," she mumbled.

"Are you saying that Dr. Rosenstein's medical performance is not being monitored by anyone at the hospital facility."

She responded in the affirmative!

OMG!

In an "emergency"  situation in the future, it may behoove patients to drive on, unless they're prone to leaving their life in the hands of frauds like David H. Rosenstein.

http://www.julianayrs.com/

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Oregon case reveals the tie between software piracy and identity theft!

(Photo courtesy of naveenium at Flickr)

Software Piracy is a multi-billion dollar issue. Whether it's hawked in a spam e-mail, a flea market or on a auction site -- it might not work as well as advertised -- and could even lead to identity theft.

You never know what might be installed in pirated software. The person selling it to you might add a little malicious software (containing a keylogger) and steal all your personal and financial information.

A recent case showing how pirated software leads to identity theft was announced by the Department of Justice:

An Oregon man pleaded guilty today to selling counterfeit computer software with a retail value of more than $1 million, in addition to aggravated identity theft and mail fraud, announced Assistant Attorney General of the Criminal Division Alice S. Fisher and Karin J. Immergut, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. This case is part of the Justice Department’s initiative to combat online auction piracy.

Jeremiah Joseph Mondello, 23, of Eugene, Ore., pleaded guilty to one count each of criminal copyright infringement, aggravated identity theft and mail fraud before U.S. District Court Judge Ann L. Aiken in Eugene. Mondello faces up to 27 years in prison, a maximum fine of $500,000 and three years of supervised release. Sentencing has been set for July 23, 2008.

Although this only appears to be a small win in the overall problem, it illustrates the danger of installing unauthorized software on your system. You might get more than you bargained for:

Mondello admitted to stealing individuals’ identifying information to establish online payment accounts in their names. Mondello acquired victims’ names, bank account numbers and passwords by using a computer keystroke logger program to surreptitiously obtain this information. The keystroke logger program installed itself on the victim’s computer and then recorded the victim’s name and bank account information as the information was being typed. The program then electronically sent the information back to Mondello, and he used this stolen information to establish the online payment accounts.

In other words, the moral of the story is that the money you save buying knock-off software can easily be lost when the seller returns to clean out your financial assets.

Trust me, criminals are not honorable and they could care less, if you get left holding the bag.

Last, but not least, most victims of identity theft are able to get their financial institutions to write-off their losses. However, if they discover you used illegal software -- which happened to contain malicious capabilities -- my guess is they are going to deny your fraud claim.

DOJ credited the Software & Information Industry Association for their assistance in this conviction. This association represents the software industry and goes after software and content piracy. They provide a means to report instances of piracy and offer up to a million dollar reward for doing so.

Full press release on this matter, here.

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Bills Introduced to Combat Organized Crime on Auction Sites

While stories of individual people getting scammed on auction sites are legendary, individuals aren't only ones victimized on these sites. Large retailers and brand owners are victimized when their stolen or counterfeit merchandise is sold on these sites, also.

In response to this, two bills are being introduced to combat this problem in the halls of Congress.

The reason this has become a growing issue is that criminals can net 70 percent of the value of stolen merchandise on an auction site versus the going 30 percent received on street corners, flea markets and pawn shops. So far as all the knock-off (counterfeit) goods being sold on auction sites, it's hard to put a dollar loss to it, but many believe it's substantial.

According to the International Anticounterfeting Coalition, counterfeiting costs U.S. businesses $200 to $250 billion a year. Counterfeiting and e-fencing pose safety risks to the public-at-large, also. Outdated or merchandise that isn't what it is advertised to be could potentially poison people, or cause bodily harm when it doesn't work like it's supposed to.

Simply stated auction sites, provide an anonymous marketing environment to sell both stolen and counterfeit goods.

“By hiding behind the anonymity of the Internet, they can make more money with less risk of getting caught than selling to a stranger on a street corner who might turn out to be a police officer. This bill would lift that cloak and help law enforcement put on-line criminals where they belong – behind bars,” according to Joe LaRocca, the National Retail Federations Vice President of Loss Prevention.

To address this problem, a federal bill (H.R. 6713, the E-Fencing Enforcement Act of 2008) is being introduced by Representative Bobby Scott, chairman of the House Judiciary Committee’s Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism and Homeland Security.

The bill will require on-line auction operators to maintain information about high-volume sellers and provide the information to a person with "standing" once a police report is filed. The definition of a person of standing would be a law enforcement officer or a representative from a company, who has an interest in the merchandise being illegally sold on an auction site.

This is the second bill introduced recently to combat organized retail crime, which costs retailers anywhere from $15 to 30 billion a year. On July 15th, H.R. 6491, the Organized Retail Crime Act of 2008, was introduced by Representative Brad Ellsworth, a former county sheriff, along Representative Jim Jordan, as the lead co-sponsor. The bill establishes that unless auction site owners can show specific steps to prove goods being sold were not being obtained by theft or fraud, they could be viewed as "facilitating" the activity. This bill will also require site operators to cooperate with the police and organizations with a stake in stopping the activity. In certain instances, it will also allow merchants to initiate civil actions over stolen merchandise being sold on an auction site.

In the past, auction operators have been criticized for not effectively cooperating with companies and law enforcement when they made an inquiry into suspected criminal activity on their sites. It has also been established that smaller (individual) victims and merchants often receive little to no assistance after being victimized in an Internet auction deal.

E-fencing, phishing, counterfeit goods and the use of fraudulent financial instruments to buy merchandise from unsuspecting customers have all victimized countless people and organizations on auction sites.

Criminals often lure people to do their dirty work, also. Recruits are normally harvested off the Internet, sometimes from job sites, and offered work to reship stolen merchandise and or launder money from fraudulent transactions. Much of this activity involves sending money, or hot merchandise across an International border --making it extremely difficult to track.

A lot of criminal activity is facilitated on auction sites by what is known as phishing. Phishing is where an account owner is tricked into giving up their account details, either via social engineering, or more and more often, after downloading some malicious sofware. The stolen account details are then used to take-over the account and use it for illicit purposes.

In fact, eBay and PayPal accounts are frequently the most phished brands out there.

Phishing, normally facilitated by spam e-mails, is another ever-growing criminal activity on the Internet. Recent studies by the Anti Phishing Working Group show that it is becoming more automated and malicious software (crimeware) used to automatically steal information is becoming more prevalent.

There is little doubt that a lot of the criminal activity on auction sites is sophisticated and reeks of organized crime.

For anyone investigating fraud on an auction site, the only way to effectively do so, is to have access to information quickly and with as little red tape as possible. A lot of these crimes cross over borders quickly and by the time and investigator gets what they need, the trail is often pretty cold.

When auction site owners -- who suffer no financial liability and collect a lot of revenue in fees from this activity -- don't cooperate or move too slowly, it only ensures that criminals will be laughing all the way to the bank.

Even the government has had their stolen inventory sold on eBay and Craigslist. In April, the GAO issued a report that military items, including F-14 components, were being sold on auction sites. In August of last year, a U.S. Attorney was quoted as saying that stamps being stolen from self service vending machines with cloned payment cards were being sold on auction sites. At the time, I ran a simple search query and found some pretty good deals on stamps. As of today, these great deals still exist. Many of them are being sold below cost and the last I checked the Postal Service still offers credit. Why would someone sell stamps below cost?

In my opinion, both of the bills don't only serve the large merchants out there, but have the potential to protect everybody from fraud on auction sites. While both of these bills are being driven by the National Retail Federation, I see a lot of benefits to passing them for everyone concerned with fraud on auction sites.

I highly recommend that these other people, join in with the NRF and the Congressmen involved, and support getting these bills passed.

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eBay/Craigslist praised by Congressman for efforts to curb sales of stolen military equipment on their sites (?)

I've written a few things about scams and fencing stolen merchandise on auction sites. Recently, the GAO discovered that items stolen from the military are for sale on eBay and Craigslist.

Even more interesting were the results of narrowly focused hearings (my opinion) on this matter in Washington, which can be seen at the bottom of this post. The reason I believe they were "narrowly focused" is because there is no shortage of fraud, phishing and financial misdeeds on auction sites.

Of course, there is also no shortage of ordinary citizens and businesses that have been taken to the cleaners on an auction site. Stolen government items are only a small part of the overall problem.

From the GAO report:

GAO found numerous defense-related items for sale to the highest bidder on eBay and Craigslist. A review of policies and procedures for these Web sites determined that there are few safeguards to prevent the sale of sensitive and stolen defense-related items using the sites. During the period of investigation, GAO undercover investigators purchased a dozen sensitive items on eBay and Craigslist to demonstrate how easy it was to obtain them. Many of these items were stolen from the U.S. military. According to the Department of Defense (DOD), it considers the sensitive items GAO purchased to be on the U.S. Munitions List, meaning that there are restrictions on their overseas sales. However, if investigators had been members of the general public, there is a risk that they could have illegally resold these items to an international broker or transferred them overseas.

Apparently, body armor, MRE (meals ready to eat), uniforms, night vision goggles, NBC (Nuclear Biological Chemical) equipment and even F-14 components were some of the items purchased on eBay and Craiglist by undercover investigators.

The obvious concern would be terrorists, or other not very friendly people getting their hands on some of this stuff.

Given the organized effort on a lot of auction sites to fence stolen merchandise via some pretty sophisticated methods, it's not surprising that the GAO found military equipment for sale on the sites. Many have speculated that these sites are used as a means of fencing the proceeds of what is known as organized retail crime. Of course, less organized criminals obviously sell their goods on auction sites, also.

Organized retail crime obtains their goods by a variety of methods from common theft to using stolen financial instruments. A lot of stolen financial instruments are used to purchase items on auction sites and e-commerce sites. Of course, they are used in more traditional store settings for the same purpose, also.

On eBay, account credentials and payment accounts (PayPal) are phished all the time, enabling an additional layer of anonymity to the schemes. In fact, over the years, many experts have stated that eBay and PayPal are the two most phished brands out there.

One thing not mentioned in the report is that people don't always get what was advertised on these sites. It isn't inconceivable that a complete fighter jet might be put up for sale, paid for and in the end a toy, or "nothing at all" is received by the buyer.

Trust me, this wouldn't be the first time something like this has happened on an auction site.

A lot of counterfeit (knock-off) merchandise is sold on the sites, advertised as the "real thing," also.

Our leaders in Congress reacted by calling Jim Buckmaster (Craigslist) and Tod Cohen (eBay) in to speak with them on the matter.

Anne Broache (CNet) writes:

By calling Craigslist CEO Jim Buckmaster and eBay government relations chief Tod Cohen to Washington for the hearing, the subcommittee seemed to be preparing to place those executives in the hot seat. But the tone of that questioning was actually quite cordial. At the end of the panel, Tierney even praised the companies for "trying very hard" to keep sensitive military goods off their sites and acknowledged the rules of the road aren't the most clear.

Based on her article, which reports that Buckmaster and Cohen were treated with "kid gloves" during the session, my prediction is that little is going to be done to regulate the sale of stolen goods on auction sites as a result of this.

Meanwhile, everyone running for office is saying they will be the one doing something about the problem of special interests in Washington.

On a closing note, I want to commend the GAO for their efforts to expose a problem. I'm just saying it's a shame that no one listened to what they were saying, very carefully.

HTML version of the GAO report, here.

PDF version, here.

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West Hollywood Halloween Carnival (2009)...ghouls, faeries & blood-thirsty Vampires! Strip-light-fantastic...

A young femme Latino with a wild orchid arranged just behind his ear (with a pierced earring on the other) held up a see-through cape and draped over his body as he fluttered his eyelids a tad, and awaited approval from a male friend flipping through an odd-assortement of costumes at the CVS outlet.

Ah-ha!

West Hollywood's infamous Halloween Carnival must be creeping up on us.

On October 31st, as the sun slides into the ocean off the picturesque Pacific Coast, ghostly goblins and ghastly Drag Queens (with big hair, bigger boobs, and attitudes to match) will saunter down the blocked-off  boulevard to strut their sassy, sensual, svelte, sexy stuff.

I expect there will be a bevy of naughty hilarious impersonations of "John & Kate" (stinkers!) with kiddies in tow (is eight ever enough?) copied to the "t" ad nauseam throughout the night's festive proceeding, a butch batch of balloon boys, a smattering of Obamas with veiled Afghans grovelling at his side, a posse of self-righteous Mormons, and a baker's doze or two of buffed Vampires with botox lips, impeccable pumped-up pecs, and washboard abs ready to - um - suck the life out of you.

The annual Carnival sponsored by WeHo (we "whores"), is the extravagant soiree of the year, so there will be a hot time in the old gay gulch next week's end.

Hundreds of thousands of lookie-loo's will descend on the two-mile square "gay" City, in fact, and slurp the smorgasboard of sensory delights up!

Plenty to salivate over.

Half-naked bodies in wild seductive outfits, send-ups that will make 'ya grab for your videoCam, celebrities tripping the-light-fantastic with TMZ paparazzi at-the-ready up their rear, regular joes showing off their "packages", and a whole slew of chic party types hyped up & anxious to BOOGIE!

MTV has been known to label the blow-out the hippest event on the planet.

Sure, the curious may want to stroll up to Hollywood Blvd. (to Hollyweird) and catch the "breeders" do their thing - but, you know what? - the fags do it better!

Haven't a thing to wear?

Well, just stop in to Chi Chi LaRue's spanking new "porn" shop just a boa's length away from tony Robertson (@ Santa Monica Boulevard) and snatch up something bondage, something blue, something bizzare baby, too. 

Do!!!

In the alternative, hike up your skirt and trot your volumptuous a**  up to Hollywood & Vine. 

I spied a couple of dazzling feather headresses in a boutique window - that were so spectacular that a costume's not even a necessity - if you catch my drift.

Okay, 'ya need the ba**s  to pull it off, yessir!

Each year about two months before the big night, I swear up-and-down, that I'll pump up it up and take the plunge:

Stride down the strip in a gold jockstarp adorned with fluffy white electric wings!

Yup!

The old couch potato didn't make it off the lay-away plan. 

Next year, promise!

On the strip, there'll be a lot of wild dancin' and boozin', and costume contests galore with big buck prizes to boot.

I expect a posse of DJ's will be ensconced in nifty eye-catching tents decorated to the hilt with the macabre, to conjure of an after-midnight witchy mood to slap platters to.

How many times do you anticipate night prowlers hear the catch strains of Michael Jackson's hit-album "Thriller" - before the eve goes boo?

Of course, the parade of gay pride busting out all over the strip, won't be limited to the out-of-doors.

A gaggle of chic (and trashy!) soirees are waiting to seduce and entertain 'ya!

"Night of the Oink" (at the Eagle) promises to be a hoot with DJ  "Peter G" revving up a sweaty sexy storm!

Why the oink?

"Because men are pigs," guffawed the party planners.

Whoa Nellie!

At Ultra Suede (on Robertson) the "Super Duper Spooky Cherry Pop" might just do it for your bippie.

In fact, a lot of booty @ Ultra Seude & the Factory will be shakin' pop music.

And, get out - front-row-center - for a live performance with Agnes.

DJ Marco will be waiting with bated breath to let out a primal scream at the Abbey (Robertson) where I expect the party favors (and sizzling hottie male strippers) will be stepping stridently to the tune of the devilish living dead til the wee hours of dawn.

Farther down the strip - and up a left to Hollywood Boulevard - adventurous stray dogs may want to catch Fred & Jason's (the winsome killer duo) Halloweene gig.

Ooops!

Just checked the calendar. 

That scintillating bash - with DJ Manny Patel Jr. spinning in the Grand Ballroom and DJ Bryan Pfeifer jamming on the Roof  Deck in the Graveyead Lounge - comes to life on Friday the 30th.

Imagine that!

Two spectacular ghoulish nights to par-tay heartily at, eh?

Moi?

Just piecing together a knock-out costume for a grand entrance at dusk in the heart of Rainbow-ville.

So, get cracking (and cackling) because there are just 5 days to go before the scare of your life.

Haven't got a thing to wear?

If you're stuck for costume ideas, click on the links below to get a gander at a couple of easy throw-together outfits sure to get a nod of approval from your ghoul-friends, Madge.

One-eyed Pumpkin Beau

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kKlNnkJtHRE

Wind-blown Witch with bondage fetish

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=POtznaPer4w

Data Robot

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9z_2pwnchxY

See 'ya there!!!

http://www.julianayrs.com

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Julian Ayrs 3rd Annual Worst-Dressed / Best-Dressed Women!

A nod to Mr. Blackwell!

Style, it's that - not the clothes - that make the man or woman!

When a fashionista strolls into a high-profile soiree - it's important that if the casual observer spots a definite "look" pleasing to-the-eye right off-the-bat - that they give the nod when the stylish mission has been accomplished.

There's nothing worse than a man-about-town - or a stylish gal, either - appearing in public like they've just been shoddily-pieced together.

Here is a sampling of folks in the limelight who pulled off the stylish task admirably - and a handful of ne'er-do-well fashion ruffians - who missed the mark by a country-mile!

Ten Worst-Dressed Women

(2010)

Lindsay Lohan

A rehab Queen with a fussy fashion flair - often topped with curious feathery strands of luscious fly-away-hairs - that cry out for ward-robe and make-up handlers to storm in from the sidelines for emergency repairs!

Lohan is capable of transforming a simple cocktail dress into a signature number, though, and often pulls the nifty trick off with little aplomb provided traces of magic dust don't call attention to a habit of the hard-core druggie variety.


Lindsay, rages on!

But, in the final analysis - quite a few of the threads amount to tasteless K-Mart specials - that underscore her penchant for bargain-basement notions that ultimately bind her down.

Diane Keaton

Old-hat Keaton - brimming with stale accessories - continues to flash forward with Woody Allen reminders that spell toxic nostalgic memories of a tired (oh-so-Geritol-laced) yesteryear.


Being as comfortable as an old worn shoe doesn't amount to a hill of has-beens - or even manage to cut a fine swath in the wardrobe finery scheme of things - Diane!


Egads!

Bristol Palin

A pioneer woman (you betcha) attempting to conquer bell-weather trends in a gaggle of dicey silvery fabrics straight from the moonshine shacks of a foreboding "North to Alaska" hell.

Not mucho pot luck, eh Bristol?

The bizarre body-sheath featured above fails to flatter the former ABC Disco Queen's figure (is that what it is?) for a handful of nonsensical reasons!

If 'ya haven't got it, then don't try to flaunt it, darlink!


 

Rihanna

A misfit in a windstorm who can't make up her trendy mind!

The Pop Diva is a riot of jazzy colors and off-the-wall high-tech synthetic fabrics (tisk ! tisk!).

The tiresome - details details details - bog the wannabee Siren down into near-stylish oblivion.

On the way to becoming last year's best flavor???

Mary Tyler Moore

A matronly glance at the past which has succeeded in demonizing a campy potato sack offering while rudely tossed over an out-of-shape body politic.


Oh, Mary!


In the shocking attack on fashion (captured above) - too many wraps and sashes and unsightly giggling gnashes - have ended up hiding once-pretty pair of shapely legs.

Likewise, the little distractions creep over once-perky heavenly boobies with fascination, as slow as Molasses in January!

Joan Rivers

A walking-talking "k-vetching" QVC kiosk ready to explode at the witching hour and devour!


Talk about a carpet-bagger!

Joan, where did you scoop up that flowery number, masquerading as a designer couture frock?


Just maybe, it was a once-glorious table-cloth or left-over curtain, scooped up from a fanciful re-run lifted from the still-hilarious Carol Burnett Variety Show?

Chelsea Lately

The B-list talk-show hostess (without the mostest) touts Madonna hand-me-down bustiers - replete with tacky stressed-out infrastructures - that triumphantly underscore the merits of squirreling away a couture designer gown or two for future red-carpet emergencies (even at the cost of a pretty penny).

What kind of white-trailer-trash are you?

Well - no pulses are racing - honey!

Star Jones

Heh, baby!'

Your persona is about to be shuffled aside by a big "black hole".

OMG!

I'm betting a little moolah (with the emphasis on moo) that it might be "O's" hefty whirl-wind entrance - onto a snazzy competing Cable Network's airwaves - that's about to push 'ya out of the limelight!


Star, you have more chins - and celestial cellulite bodies - than Saturn has stellar heavenly rings or Carter's amassed in little liver pills.

Nikki Blonsky

Deck the halls with a myriad of floating budding beading patterns!


Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha!

Is that a night mask at your waist (that you're waiting to slip on) or a belt you're about to maneuver by dumptruck just so - to hide all the flubbery flab- honey bun?


Fashion is capable of being utilitarian, but this takes the cake, I fathom!

Snookie

Snooki reminds me of a rump roast, trussed up, ready to be carved up by a pack of ravenous sex-hungry Jersey macho studs! 

Missionary position, please!


The outfit featured here is not fashion - it's a designer sheet - waiting to happen.

Ten Best-Dressed Women

(2010)

Helen Mirren

Ms. Mirren is risk-taker and a stylist's breath of fresh!


Again and again, the sexy Senior trots down the carpet - continually wowing the envious teaming masses!

Kate Middleton

Though I was inclined to feature Ms. Middleton's "coming out" frock - it occurred to me that I should address a side of Prince William's fiance - that is adventurous and terribly with it.

In the Royal Court, the Royals will be turning their noggins, in wondrous fascination.

Halle Berry

The former "Bond" girl is a knock-out - even with next to nothing on her flawless appealing skin - for starters!

Halle has a grab-bag of fashion tricks sure to keep her on top.

Meanwhile the competition on the carpet falls down and goes boom.

They should take some pointers!

Carey Mulligan

Sweet, elegant, and chic - the pretty Brit knows how to turn herself out in the quick - and snap up a bevy of prized Statuettes in the aftermath as she catches her glorious sexy breath!

Michelle Obama

Golly, Michelle Obama underscores that she really "cleans up" nice! 

Though, often inclined to sport outfits according to formal (or ceremonial occasions), sometimes Obama's better-half takes a splash - and in the process - makes my fellow Americans sit up and take notice.

Kirsten Dundst

All the curves and allure of a legendary siren underscore why the tony elite continue to do Ms. Dundst' bidding.

Nonetheless, Kirsten slyly manages to fit right in on the red carpet - at the Golden Globes, the Oscars, or a premiere movie opening - without appearing too showy or pushy!

Natalie Portman

"The Black Swan" opened doors wide - and now the high-profile Portman - is the center of a Hollywood whirlwind!

On the carpet or off, Natalie holds her own with the best of 'em.

Expect she'll be turning out in some nifty "outfits" for baby that will cause a heady new trend!

Liza Minnelli

A feminine fashion approach is best for Liza - boas that don't constrict, and feathers that soften the look of her skin - are best choices.


A striking persona who dazzles when she saunters into a soiree.


Talk about stealing the limelight! 

Salma Hayek

Salma is able to trade off her dynamite "sensual appeal" in high-fashion knock-outs (couture gowns) with elegant slip chic elegant ease.


Ah, she exalts scintillating eye-catching flourishes. that underscore her Divine shapely figure.

Taylor Swift

"You get me," Ms. Swift has oft screamed from the stage

Uh-huh!

The Country & Western Beauty is a fashion plate (darlings) - capable of charming from the get-go - when she strolls out on the stage and strikes up a catchy musical or fashion chord.

Special Category

Best Dressed / Non -Fashion Statement

Lady Gaga

Environmental statements, Monster exaltations, and ballsy sensations all rolled-into one!

 

In the surprise end scenario, Lady Gaga's wild showy bark, underscores she's truly a one-of-a-kind Yankee-Doodle Darling.

Legends are made of these, poker face!

http://www.thetattler.biz

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Prince William's engagement...triggers fashion knock-offs!

On the chic heels of Prince William's engagement announcement - knock-off artists sprang into action - to fill the potential demand for all-things Kate Middleton!

For example, quick-as-a-wink, a cheapo version of Kate's engagement sparkler (the ring that once graced the finger of Prince Willie's mother Lady Diana) was being hawked on HSN (by an enterprising Carol Brodie) for a posse of young lovers to scoop up for their own upcoming trot down the aisle of wedded bliss.

Issa - a popular fashion house for the tony elite - was quick on the uptake, too!

Within hours of the future Royale's appearance before the frenzied fleet-street press - the top brass was drawing attention to the fact Kate was gussied up in one of their own understated - but elegant - saphire blue frocks.

Once Ms. Middleton is firmly entrenched in the uppercrust society of the super rich - and the International Jet Set - will she go the way of Lady Diana before her or the Duchess of pork - er - York?

News at 11!

http://www.thetattler.biz



Vivacious Kate!

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Julian Ayrs 2nd Annual Worst (& Best) Dressed Women! Cher, Sarah Palin, and Lady Gaga in special category...

Mr. Blackwell infamous for fashion haikus

Last year, when Obama was triapsing about on the campaign trail - vigorously purusing the role of Commander-in-Chief - I penned a post with a handful of fashion tips so the upstart from Chicago would cut a fine sartorial path for potential supporters.

Post:  06/05/08

http://fraudphishing-financialmisdees.blogspot.com/2008/06/barack-obamafashion-tips-for-stylish.html

A blogger stumbled across the fahion spread, and hinted to his readers, that I just might be the next fashion wit, Mr. Blackwell.

Blackwell - formerly a well-respected fashion designer - was King of the Haiku quips - so when he passed to spirit last year there was a cavernous tongue-in-check void to fill.

So, I took up the delightful task, and unveiled my 1st Annual Worst & Best-Dressed lists for Women and Men at the end of the year.

Post:  12/28/08

http://fraudphishing-financialmisdees.blogspot.com/2008/12/10-worst-dressed-listcher-oprah-and.html


Post:  01/31/09

http://fraudphishing-financialmisdees.blogspot.com/2009/01/julian-ayrs-1st-annual-worst-dressed.html

Can it really be a year later since the first platform shoe dropped with a thud?

So, now, I tout my 2nd Annual Worst & Best-Dressed list put the spotlight on the ladies, first.

Tomorrow, the 2nd Annual Best & Worst-Dressed list will be published for the man-about-town who curried favor - then again  - just maybe did not!

2nd Annual Best & Worst Dressed Women's list

Angelina Jolie

One of the rare exoic females of the species capable of stutting her stuff  in a body-fitting sheath that smacks of sensuality and undisputed tantalizing fashion appeal!

The undestanted earrings spark up the outfit - and ultimately - add a  touch of understated elegance.

Jolie, is simply a dazzling gem!

Bai Ling

I confess, I have a soft spot in my heart - and fashion musings - for Ms. Ling.

Over the past year, we crossed paths on several auspicious occasions, and became fast friends.

The stunning beauty is a chic clotheshorse - both on the gangway - and off.

In fact, when the talented actress strides out on a press junket to promote a film, the paparazzi go wild;  after all, Bai Ling is an intriging subject who never disappoints in eye-catching designer gowns and cocktail frocks  that underscore her unique signature style and flair for the exotic and unusual.

Sarah Ferguson

In her glory days as the Duchess of York, Miss Ferguson was inclined to sashay over-the-top, all decked out in floppy frothy oversized hats (Hedda Hopper would be proud ) and gowns bogged down with stuffy-old bows and wings and all-manner-of fashion flourishes that went bump in the night.

Ghastly, for the most part.

But, in recent years, the Duchess has nurtured into stylish sensiblity that speaks volumes for her.

At the recent screening of  "Young Victoria" (Producer), I got an up-close personal gander at the perky redhead, who was not only ravishing - but correctly turned out, too - for the occasion.

Hats off to weight-watchers for helping her turn the fashionista corner!

Michelle Obama

Over the past year, 1st Lady Michelle Obma demonstrated a keen fashion sense - especially in respect to the appropriateness of an outfit - while out on public jaunts and on kick-back occasions at home at the White House while holding court.

Oftentimes, casual ensembles were spruced up with pastels,  or subtle fashion flourishes.

At high-profile events, Obama's better-half displayed a flair for a defining look, which was never over-the-top or in your face.

A clothes-horse along the lines of Jackie-O  (in the making).

Barbara Walters

Although the feisty gal - with the gift of gab - is getting on in years,  Walters  doesn't intend to get stuffy, dated, or become an old stick-in-the-mud.

On the recent 10 most -fascinating special, for instance, the likeable hostess-with-the-mostest was gussied up in a tasteful body-fitting gown - and subtle accessories - which not only suited her distinctive facial features but trimmed years off her age.

Always keen on what is socially and politically correct, Walters manages to saunter in-and-of the spotlight in a wardrobe that underscores that a middle-aged woman has many fashion choices given a little thought.

Miley Cyrus

The headlines screamed that the young songbird's  pretty cocktail dress plunged a lttle too low, when she appeared for an audience,  with Queen Elizabeth at a tony Royal Performance.

 Hooey.

The charismatic young beauty was not only a knock-out, but got the nod from this discerning fashionista  on his lofty perch in WeHo.

In fact, in recent days, Miley has been coming into her own in a trend-setting sense, with a maturer style that - ultimately - belies her critics.

It will be curious to see what she conjures up next for red carpet soirees in the future.

Julia Roberts

A perennial favorite who has experienced her share of fashion victimitis over the years, actress Julia Roberts has carved a niche for herself as the down-to-earth girl-next-door who cleans up nicely thank-you very much.

On top of the latest fashion trends, the award-winning actress is inclined to take a stab at fresh couture offerings now and then.

To  many, Ms.Roberts is worth her weight in gold when it comes to bellweather trends and fashion influence.

And, therefore, treads lightly.

She's comfortale and pretty in the classy outfit pictured here, but racey numbers suit her, too.

As versatile on the fashion trail as she is up on the big screen.

Emily Blunt

A fresh-faced beauty - just as comfortable in her skin - when exquisitely trussed up in period wardrobe (Young Victoria) or squeezed into a body-hugging understated cocktail dress sparked up with a dash of stardust.

Pay attention to her lightly-applied make-up, gals, which conjures up a look au naturel that's difficult to hold a candle to.

A star in the galaxy worth keeping an eye on for sure!

Paris Hilton

Last year, the Beverly Hills dish - with undeniable sex appeal - ended up on the worst-dressed list becasue of ensemble choices that underscored she was prone to become a fashion victim ad nauseam..

At the recent premiere of her documentary "Paris" - up-close-and-personal - I was literally dazzled by her charm, elegance, and stand-out style.

You've come a long way, baby!

Katie Couric

Oh, such a darling!

Over the years, Katie has continued to smile sweetly, as network brass transformed her on-camera image from girl-next-door, to conservative newsie and onward to trusted night anchor.

During those topsy-turvey days of bending, shaping, and primping, American TV viewers gobbled her up.

Would the real Katie  step forward, please!

Something tells me, the outfit pictured here, is more along the lines of her own fashion taste; if so, get out the applause soundtrack,

After all, I'm always partial to chic black party dresses and pearls.

But Katie, dear, you need a little coaching with the hands

Ten Worst-Dressed Women

(would you bed any of these inductees)

Amy Winehouse

Is that a banana in your shorts, Amy, or are you just happy to see us?

Fashionista impressions?

The pop star couldn't compete with a West Hollywood Drag Queen on Karaoke night, even after two-or-three drinkie-poohs too many!

Toss that broad some spare change, will 'ya, so she can spring for a sex change!

Cher

Bound and chained more-often-than-not, all the Pop Diva needs is a oil-soaked gag, to deliver up the perfect scintillating image of a slave-mate!

You'd think Cher - who usually pays a lot of attention to Details! Details! Details - would have at least swept up the pube shavings (rear right) before posing for the alluring publicity still.

If a gaggle of fans are lucky, she'll auction 'em off at Caesar's next opening night.

La Toya Jackson

A booby-trap waiting to happen!

And, the perfect poster chick, to warn about the perils of botched botox injections.

Queen Latifa

The porky Diva is a role model for all hefty African-American women with an unwitting taste for the tacky!

In one fell swoop, Latifa underscores a myriad of fashion debacles hot-to-trot single mammas  (packing twenty pounds too many) should avoid to ward off nick-names like "old lard ass" (etc. etc. etc.)

Bottom line?

The popular torch-singer is better off slipping into a free-flowing Kaftan, than the stringy garb cutting into the folds of fat (which don't flatter and tend to contrict her).

Sarah Palin

Palin, fashion innovator (oh, yeah!) first and foremost (unless the clothes are rented by the Republicans)  unveils a clever twist on a once-charming fashion accessory - known to college goodie two-shoes - as the "fur muff"

In the great white north, Palin is inclined to raucously shout out:

Fur's up!

If you pry the former ice Queen for the fashion specifics, she'll sure as heck give 'ya a scrunched up wink, and proudly note matter-of-fact: for the record, that she killed the dumb fur-bearing  with her own handsanimal while donning her Sunday best on the way to Church.

Amen!

Wanda Sykes

Comedian Wanda Sykes is quick on the uptake with rat-a-tat rapid-fire jokes that tickle the funny bone, alright.

But, she's more of a hoot to take a gander at!

In a nutshell, the comic is a ghastly mirror-image of an ovestuffed pheasant with ubiquitous fringe on the top

Don't ruffle her ragged feathers, or she'll make you the butt of a joke in a punch-line, for starters.

Being the butt of talk-show fodde, is in Vogue, though.

Totally, dudes!

Meryl Streep

Obviously, Ms. Streep didn't nab this coveted award for any innate sense of style!

After all, the talented actress is basically a mish-mash of stylish after-rthoughts that end up crying out for sympathy (no encore, please).

Meryl, you're over-the-hill, out-of-the fashion loop, and gone-to-seed.!

And, the baubbles?

Toss 'em before swine

No problem!

Oprah Winfrey

A smorgasbord of fashion flourish disasters!

Having gobbled up too much of each, it's obvious, the tell-tale signs of indigestion (and our indignation) has set in.

Style misfires - scooped neck, gaudy buckle, spitting fabric belt - amount to a belly-flop (not the divine swang song) Ms. Piggy was reaching for.

A tidal wave of frump gone awry and on its way to cable hell (and back?).

Good riddance.

Leslie Stahl

A pretty woman plagued by boyish tendencies.

Is Stahl off to audition for the role of a bobbsy-twin playing opposite TV lesbo, Ellen?

Or is she just smitten with the perky talk show host's waif-like persona?

Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, they say.

Thin-legged jeans which accent skinny gams, out-of-place T-shirts, and manish leather jackets in off-color shades of brown, also accentuate the obvious.

Stahl doesn't have the Hepburn pannache (or style DNA) to pull it all off.

Best-Worst Dressed Woman

Lady Gaga

Pop Diva alights in a spanking new category

Sizzling stage performer, Lady Gaga, tends to be an eclectic mix-and-match hodge-podge of eye-catching fabrics crafted into show-shopping get-ups that  drum up wild roars from the crowd.

Even still, she usually managess to hit a top that usually strikes a balance, which resonates with her die-hard fans and Pop Music afficianados.!

The mercurial Diva - with a penchant for chapeaus of the wild and whoolly variety - on occasion saunters into a fashion faux pas (or two) - like the night she squeaked by during the occasion of her audience with the Queen of England.

Naughty, yes!

But, endearing, too.

A likely candidate to mug for "No Excuses" commercials, eh?

Her fashion sense (and scintillating style) is all over the map, though  - which is the major crux of the dilemma for fashionistas pulse-takers who strive to slot their subjects into neat & ttidy packages for easy consumption.

For this reason, and with her stage persona at the forefront of my style-concious sensibilities, I crown her Best-Dressed Worst-dressed because she is a stand alone fashion wonder which will continue to rage on amidst thunderous applause for decades to come.

http://www.julianayrs.com

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